A burst water main has flooded a house and forced the closure of a main road for 24 hours.

Ermine Street in Huntingdon was closed between St Peter’s Road and the ring road after emergency services were called at about 3am today.

A 6-inch water main has burst and Anglian Water said a “handful” of properties had been left without water supplies.

Later, one lane was opened on Ermine Street, allowing traffic to exit the ring road and continue towards the Stukeleys, but the road was expected to remain closed in the opposite direction until repairs were completed.

A spokeswoman said: “We’re very sorry that a burst to a 6-inch water main on Ermine Street, Huntingdon this morning has caused disruption to road users and meant a handful of properties are off water.

“We know this is a busy road and we are truly sorry for the inconvenience this has caused. Unfortunately we do expect Ermine Street will need to be closed for approximately 24 hours while we carry out repairs to the pipe and the road. Our team is on site now working hard to complete this and return things to normal as quickly as possible.

“Regrettably, the burst has also caused flooding to one customer’s property. We have spoken with them this morning and we will arrange for things to be put things right as soon as possible.”

Police advised motorists to avoid the area. Ermine Street is the main road north out of Huntingdon town centre.

The Anglian Water spokeswoman added: “Once again, we’re very sorry for the upset and disruption caused and thank customers for their patience.”